COST and INFO: A 25th anniversary presentation by the Judith Svalander Dance Theatre. The group transforms the Opera House stage into a realm of fantasy. Experience Clara’s magical and enchanting journey as Tchaikovsky’s world-renowned music is brought to life through the talent and grace of Svalander’s ballet company. Schedule: 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 9 and 16; 2 and 6 p.m. Dec. 10 and 17; 7 p.m. Dec. 15. Tickets: $25 adults, $18 students. Tickets and information: 815-338-5300 or www.woodstockoperahouse.com/page/nutcracker-ballet-3.

[Photo provided]

“SING-ALONG MESSIAH” WITH VOICES IN HARMONY

WHEN: 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 10

WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

COST and INFO: Handel’s “Messiah” will be performed by Voices in Harmony, along with a 25-piece orchestra and calligraphy by Timothy Botts. The McHenry County College Chorus will supplement the on-stage choir. Tickets: $15-$18. Tickets and information: 815-356-9212 or http://rauecenter.org/upcoming-events/messiah/.

[Photo provided]

VOLO AUTO MUSEUM 50-CENT ADMISSION

WHEN: Through Dec. 10

WHERE: Volo Auto Museum, 27582 Volo Village Road, Volo

COST and INFO: For a limited time, the museum is rolling back its admission prices to the amount charged in 1960 when the museum consisted smattering of jalopies (above) in a 10,000-square-foot, gravel-floored pole barn. With regular admission at $15 for adults and $9 for children ages 5 to 12, the 50-cent days offer a rare opportunity to glimpse the museum’s ever-changing and increasingly eclectic collections at a steep savings. Information: www.volocars.com/blog/volo-auto-museum-offers-50-cent-admission, 815-385-3644 or find Volo Auto Museum on Facebook.

[Photo provided]

NORTHWEST INDIANA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HOLIDAY POPS CONCERT

WHEN: 8 to 11 p.m. Dec. 8

WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

COST and INFO: A Holiday Pops Concert featuring festive combinations of contemporary and classic hits. The group of 75 professional musicians is under the leadership of music director and conductor Kirk Muspratt (above). Tickets: $52-$57. Tickets and information: 815-356-9212 or http://rauecenter.org/upcoming-events/niso/.

COST and INFO: Come join the ambiance at RavenStone Castle (above) this Christmas season. Enjoy a cup of hot cider while browsing through a collection of unique gifts. Castle tours available at $6 a adult. Information: 815-943-5764 or www.ravenstonecastle.com/events.html.

UGLY SWEATER 5K

WHEN: 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 9

WHERE: Prairie Ridge High School, 6000 Dvorak Drive, Crystal Lake

COST and INFO: A 4th annual fundraiser for the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. A flat and fast course. Wear your ugliest holiday gear. Event also includes a tech finisher’s shirt, medal, race bib, live music and refreshments. Cost: $25 adults, $10 students, free for children younger than age 7. Information: 847-209-4163 or https://bboldwyn.wixsite.com/pruglysweater5k.

COST and INFO: Handcrafted items and up to 66 vendors, a gift-wrapping service, concessions and entertainment. Sponsored by TEMPO (To Enhance Music and Performance Arts Opportunities) Performing Arts Booster Club for McHenry High School District 156. Information: 847-915-2897 or www.mchstempo.org.

CHRISTMAS ON THE PRAIRIE

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 8-10

WHERE: House of Seven Gables, 10308 Route 14, Harvard

COST and INFO: A unique shopping experience hosted by Steel Heart, LTD of Harvard in a barn built in the early 1800s and once part of the Underground Railroad. Shop for Christmas decor, greens, candles, primitive Santas and more in a part of McHenry County’s history. Free admission. Information: Gretchen Peczkowski, 815-943-3465 or jpgp@mc.net.